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Sunspots, also called solar lentigines, tend to show up after years of soaking in the sun’s rays. They’re usually flat, brown spots that appear in places most exposed to the sun, like the face, hands, and arms. While they’re harmless, they can cause cosmetic concerns as they signal aging. For those looking to address these spots, the FIERCE Illuminate Bright & Clear laser treatment offers a non-invasive and effective solution. Let’s dive into what you can expect before, during, and after this procedure.
1.) Preparing for FIERCE Illuminate Bright & Clear Laser Treatment
A laser treatment is only as good as your preparation.Your first step is meeting with a skincare professional to determine whether this treatment aligns with your skin type and concerns.
Steps to Take Before the Procedure
Ahead of the procedure, there are a few things to keep in mind. Avoiding sun exposure is one of the most significant parts of preparation. Prolonged exposure to UV rays makes your skin more sensitive and may heighten the chances of side effects. To ensure your skin is in the best shape for treatment, stay out of direct sunlight and steer clear of tanning beds for at least two weeks before your appointment. You can also keep your skin safe by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
You’ll also want to take a break from products that contain retinoids or exfoliants. These ingredients, while beneficial in daily routines, can thin out your skin, making it more sensitive to laser treatment. During the consultation, your dermatologist may also ask you to stop using products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), as they can cause photosensitivity.
Sometimes, a patch test may be recommended, especially for those with sensitive skin. This small test helps determine how your skin will react to the laser and reduces the risk of irritation during the full procedure.
2.) What Happens During a FIERCE Illuminate Laser Treatment Session?
The FIERCE Illuminate Bright & Clear laser uses advanced technology to address skin pigmentation issues by targeting melanin, blood, and water at different skin depths.
How the Treatment Works
Laser treatment works through a process called selective photothermolysis. Light wavelengths are used to target and break down melanin, which causes sunspots to appear. By absorbing laser energy, the melanin in the sunspot is broken down into smaller particles that your body naturally gets rid of. Aside from targeting pigmentation, this laser stimulates collagen production, improving skin tone and texture.
Your skin’s natural healing process is triggered as the laser penetrates the skin and causes controlled microinjuries. Collagen production increases as a result, resulting in a smoother, younger-looking complexion. The laser’s dual action of targeting pigment and boosting collagen makes it a go-to treatment for more than just sunspots—it also addresses redness, fine lines, and overall skin tone inconsistencies.
Comfort During the Procedure
For most people, the treatment feels like mild pinpricks. While this sensation is noticeable, the discomfort is minimal, and most patients don’t require numbing agents. Since the procedure only takes around 30 minutes, it’s quick enough to fit into a busy schedule without much disruption.
3.) Post-Treatment: Recovery and Aftercare
After the laser session, your skin needs time to recover. The duration of the recovery depends on factors like your skin type, how aggressive the treatment was, and the severity of the sunspots.
Immediate Reactions
Right after the treatment, it’s normal to experience some redness, swelling, or a mild burning sensation. These symptoms typically mimic a sunburn and fade within a few days. Some patients might notice that their skin peels slightly, but this is part of the normal healing process, as the damaged skin cells are replaced by newer, clearer skin.
Post-Treatment Care
Your dermatologist will emphasize the need for sun protection after your laser treatment. The newly treated skin will be particularly sensitive to sunlight, so applying a high-SPF sunscreen is non-negotiable. Wearing protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and avoiding direct sun exposure are also wise steps to take.
For a few days after the treatment, opt for gentle skincare products that nourish the skin without irritation. Hydrating creams and gentle cleansers can help soothe the skin as it heals. Avoid exfoliants, retinoids, or any harsh acids that might disrupt the skin’s recovery. Depending on how your skin reacts, some dermatologists recommend using products with aloe vera or hyaluronic acid to support hydration and promote healing.
Healing Timeline
Many people notice improvements in their skin within a week of treatment. Initially, sunspots may darken before they lighten, signaling that the laser energy is breaking down the pigment. You’ll see an evener, more radiant complexion after a few weeks.
While many patients see noticeable results after a single treatment, deeper sunspots or more extensive sun damage may necessitate multiple sessions for optimal results. On average, two to three treatments spaced several weeks apart offer the best outcomes.
4.) Maintaining Results and Long-Term Care
The effects of FIERCE Illuminate Bright & Clear can last for years if you take care of your skin post-treatment. Although the laser removes existing sunspots, future UV exposure can cause new ones to develop. That’s why long-term skincare habits, like daily sunscreen use and limiting sun exposure, are critical to maintaining your results.
Follow-Up Treatments
Depending on your skin’s needs, your dermatologist may recommend maintenance treatments once or twice a year to keep your skin looking its best. These follow-up sessions address any new sunspots that may develop and ensure your skin stays clear and radiant.
Laser treatments, when paired with proper sun protection, can offer long-lasting benefits. By following the pre-and post-treatment guidelines, you can enjoy smoother, more even skin and reduced sunspots with minimal downtime.
Takeaway
The FIERCE Illuminate Bright & Clear laser offers a quick, minimally invasive way to rejuvenate the skin, break down pigmentation, and boost collagen production, leaving you with a clearer, more youthful complexion. With the right preparation, aftercare, and consistent sun protection, you can achieve long-lasting results and maintain smooth, even-toned skin.
If you’re tired of dealing with stubborn sunspots or want to know more about How to remove sun damage spots, Laser Treatments for Sun Spot removal are your best bet. For those in Lima, OH, Fierce Aesthetics Med Spa offers the Best Treatment for Sun Spots. Whether you’re seeking Sun Spot/Damage Removal or want to explore other advanced skin treatment services, the team is ready to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
Explore Our Latest Laser Treatments for Sun Spot Removal in Lima, OH, and discover a world of clearer, healthier skin.
